Rumor or not? BMW Z2 based on the 1 Series Coupe

The internet auto media seem to be all over the rumor that a BMW Z2 is in works. The rumor going around the web, faster …

The internet auto media seem to be all over the rumor that a BMW Z2 is in works. The rumor going around the web, faster than Spiderman, is that the Z2 will be based on the 1 Series Coupe design and it will cover the entry-level sports roadster market.

The speculation is really not that new, but it returned stronger than ever due to a report issued by AutoZeitung. The german publication mentions that a decision on the BMW Z2 will be made by the end of this year, which will set the launch date for late 2012.

Just a rendering

By using a similar platform as the current 1 Series, BMW is looking to design a light but fast roadster, soft-top of course, in order to reduce the weight and pricing. The entry-level model(most likely for Europe) might be powered by 120 horsepower, while the higher end model, will feature a turbocharged 211 ponies. If built, the BMW Z2 will most likely use the four cylinder engines developed together with the French company PSA.

As the fellows at MotorAuthority pointed out, it is to be seen where the Z2 will fit in, especially since there is already a 1 Series coupe convertible and the 2009 BMW Z4 is just around the corner. The Z2 will need to be prices somewhere below or near the $30,000 mark(for the U.S market), in order to be appealing to the customers.

Once again, we will find out more within the next months and we shall see BMW’s decision on which models to cut from their future line-up, some will need to go for sure.